How to grow garlic. Growing garlic is easy
When and how to plant, cutting scapes and a neglected garlic raised bed. Also the difference between hardneck and softneck garlic. Garlic is the easiest plant to grow EVER!.
Note: Some of the clusters have come from the bulb splitting rather than just the seeds dropping.

How to Grow Garlic: A Comprehensive Guide

Garlic is a versatile and flavorful herb that can be grown in your own backyard. Whether you have a small raised bed or a larger garden space, cultivating garlic is relatively simple and rewarding. In this article, we will explore the process of growing garlic, including the different varieties, planting techniques, care tips, and harvesting methods. By the end of this guide, you'll have all the knowledge you need to successfully grow garlic and enjoy its delicious taste in your culinary endeavors.

Introduction: The Neglected Garlic Bed Experiment

In this introductory section, we will discuss the inspiration behind the neglected garlic bed experiment. The author shares the motivation to observe the growth of garlic over an extended period without intervening in its care. The neglected bed, made of cinder blocks, serves as the backdrop for this experiment. The author highlights the upcoming exploration of hard neck and soft neck garlic varieties and their growth in the neglected bed.

Understanding Hard Neck and Soft Neck Garlic

Before delving into the specifics of growing garlic, it's important to understand the distinction between hard neck and soft neck garlic. This section provides an overview of the primary types of garlic found in grocery stores—soft neck garlic. Soft neck garlic is known for its long shelf life, making it a popular choice among growers and sellers. On the other hand, hard neck garlic has a thinner outer skin, doesn't store as well, but produces delicious scapes that can be used in various culinary dishes.

Differences Between Hard Neck and Soft Neck Garlic

In this section, we further explore the differences between hard neck and soft neck garlic. The focus shifts to the geographical preferences of each variety, with soft neck garlic being predominantly grown in warmer regions, such as Southern California. Hard neck garlic, on the other hand, thrives in northern states. The author shares their personal experience of successfully growing both varieties in their Oregon garden, challenging the notion that certain garlic types are restricted to specific regions.

Best Time to Plant Garlic

Timing is crucial when it comes to planting garlic, and this section highlights the recommended period for planting this aromatic herb. The author emphasizes the fall as the ideal time for garlic planting, specifically around Halloween. By planting in the fall, garlic has ample time to establish its roots and develop over the winter months, resulting in healthier and more robust plants.

Planting Garlic: Step-by-Step Guide

In this detailed step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of planting garlic. Starting with the preparation of the cloves and ensuring they are free from any outer skin, the author shares their preference for planting the cloves with the pointed end facing upward. The guide also covers the depth and spacing requirements, suggesting a planting distance of about six inches between cloves. With a garden trowel or your fingers, make a hole about two inches deep in the soil.

Once the hole is prepared, place a garlic clove into each hole, ensuring the pointed end faces upwards. Gently cover the cloves with soil and press it down to secure them in place. Repeat this process for all the cloves, leaving approximately six inches of space between each one.

It's important to note that garlic prefers well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter. Ensure that the soil is loose and friable to allow for good root development. Adding compost or well-rotted manure to the soil before planting can provide the necessary nutrients for the garlic to thrive.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To help you avoid common mistakes and ensure successful garlic growth, this section addresses a few key points. Firstly, it advises against planting garlic cloves that have already sprouted, as they may not produce good-sized bulbs. Secondly, it emphasizes the importance of watering garlic adequately, especially during dry periods. However, overwatering should be avoided as it can lead to rotting. Additionally, the guide cautions against planting garlic in areas prone to standing water, as this can also cause rotting.

Caring for Your Garlic Plants

Proper care is essential for the health and development of your garlic plants. This section covers watering, fertilizing, and mulching techniques. Garlic plants require consistent moisture, particularly during their early growth stages. Water them regularly, aiming to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Deep watering is preferable to shallow watering, as it encourages the roots to grow deeper into the soil.

Fertilizing garlic can be done by applying a balanced fertilizer with a nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK) ratio suitable for root development. It's best to apply fertilizer in early spring, when the plants start actively growing. Mulching is another important aspect of garlic care. Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as straw or dried leaves, around the plants to help suppress weed growth and retain soil moisture.

Pests and Diseases: Garlic’s Natural Resilience

Garlic is known for its natural resilience to many pests and diseases. However, there are a few common issues to be aware of. This section highlights some of the potential problems, such as aphids, onion thrips, and fungal diseases like white rot and downy mildew. The guide suggests using organic pest control methods, such as insecticidal soaps or neem oil, to combat these pests. Crop rotation and proper garden hygiene are also effective in preventing diseases.

The Fascinating Scapes of Hard Neck Garlic

Hard neck garlic varieties produce scapes, which are long, curly flower stalks that emerge from the center of the plant. This section explores the unique characteristics of garlic scapes and their culinary uses. It explains that removing the scapes can redirect the plant's energy towards bulb growth, resulting in larger garlic bulbs. The scapes themselves are edible and can be used in various dishes, such as stir-fries, pesto, or pickling.

Harvesting Garlic: Signs of Maturity

Knowing when to harvest your garlic is crucial to achieve the best flavor and storage life. This section provides guidance on determining the maturity of garlic plants. One indicator is the browning of the lower leaves. When about half of the plant's leaves have turned brown, it's usually a sign that the bulbs are mature. Another method is to gently dig up a bulb and check for fully formed cloves. If the cloves fill the skin and have a papery covering, the garlic is ready for harvest.

Drying and Storing Garlic Bulbs

After harvesting, it's important to properly dry and store your garlic bulbs to ensure their longevity. This section outlines the steps for curing garlic. Once harvested, gently brush off any excess soil, but avoid washing the bulbs. Tie the garlic plants in bundles or hang them in a well-ventilated, shady area to dry. After a few weeks, when the outer skins are dry and papery, trim the roots and cut the stems to about an inch above the bulb. Store the cured garlic bulbs in a cool, dry place with good airflow.

By following these steps and guidelines, you can enjoy a successful garlic harvest and savor the flavorful bulbs in your favorite culinary creations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. When is the best time to plant garlic? Garlic is typically planted in the fall, around four to six weeks before the ground freezes. This allows the cloves to establish roots before winter. However, you can also plant garlic in early spring, although the bulbs may not grow as large.
2. Can I use store-bought garlic for planting? While you can use store-bought garlic for planting, it's important to note that some commercial garlic may be treated with growth inhibitors or have been stored under conditions that are less favorable for planting. It's generally recommended to obtain garlic specifically intended for planting from a reputable seed supplier.
3. How do I know if my garlic is ready for harvest? Garlic is ready for harvest when the lower leaves have turned brown, and the bulbs have developed fully formed cloves. You can also dig up a bulb and check if the cloves have filled the skin and have a papery covering. Remember to avoid leaving garlic in the ground for too long, as it can split or start to rot.
4. Can I save garlic cloves from my harvest for planting the following year? Yes, you can save garlic cloves from your harvest for planting in the next growing season. Choose healthy, fully mature bulbs and separate the cloves. Store them in a cool, dry place until you're ready to plant them. However, keep in mind that over time, the quality of the cloves may diminish, so it's a good practice to refresh your seed stock every few years.
5. How can I prevent pests from attacking my garlic plants? Garlic is generally resistant to many pests and diseases, but some common pests like aphids and onion thrips can still be problematic. To prevent infestations, you can practice good garden hygiene, remove any affected plants promptly, and consider using organic pest control methods like insecticidal soaps or neem oil. Additionally, companion planting with pest-repellent plants like marigolds or onions can help deter pests.
6. What should I do if my garlic plants develop yellowing leaves? Yellowing leaves in garlic can be a sign of nutrient deficiencies, such as nitrogen or sulfur. Applying a balanced fertilizer or adding organic matter to the soil can help address these deficiencies. However, it's important not to over-fertilize, as excessive nitrogen can lead to more leaf growth and smaller bulbs.
7. Can I grow garlic in containers or pots? Yes, you can grow garlic in containers or pots, as long as they have sufficient depth for the roots to develop. Choose a container that is at least 10-12 inches deep. Fill it with well-draining potting soil and follow the same planting and care instructions as for garlic planted in the ground. Ensure the container receives adequate sunlight and regular watering.

Remember, gardening practices may vary depending on your specific climate and growing conditions, so it's always helpful to consult local gardening resources or seek advice from experienced gardeners in your area.

Video source: Grow Your Heirlooms / Youtube